Policy Paper

Extending social security to own-account workers and unpaid family workers in the agriculture sector in Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

This policy paper examines how to extend social security coverage to own-account and unpaid family workers in Iraq’s agriculture sector, who make up a large share of informal employment but remain almost entirely excluded from social protection system. Drawing on 2021 Labour Force Survey data, focus groups, and key informant interviews, the paper profiles the characteristics of these workers, documents barriers to effective participation and highlights the challenges faced by institutions in reaching them. The report also outlines practical policy options, including simplifying registration, introducing flexible contribution modalities suited to seasonal incomes, linking access to productive support with social security enrolment, and enhancing coordination between the Departments of Social Security and agricultural stakeholders. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, trust-building, and tripartite dialogue in designing sustainable solutions.